MarineEx 2009 a great Success
Despite the economic situation or maybe because of it this year’s show was busier than ever with great responses from exhibitors. Even Saturdays drizzle could not dampen down the mood, ok 4pm downpour did put the show to bed early but not before some good business had been done.
The new Sea Safety & Security Area proved a big hit with visitors with over 400 brave souls enjoying the R.N.L.I. simulator and Police Sergeant Nikki Billington enjoyed showing around 300 children around the Police RIB while many parents signed up to the new Police initiative “ Kraken - if you suspect it, report it”
Quick change of gazebo on Sunday morning after Saturday nights force 8 went up the harbour and wrecked the original and the Maritime Coastguard Agency was back in business offering their good advice to all who use the coastline and the sea.
New exhibitors, Marine Ventures (Jeanneau dealers) Innotec Marine & Rob Perry (Honda) all reported good business and will be returning in 2010.
3 times exhibitors Dean & Redyhoff took the opportunity of announcing the opening of their new bar and restaurant “The Boat That Rocked” in the very impressive Portland Marina. The other marina buildings are progressing and will soon be ready for occupation – well worth a visit by land or sea. If you don’t own a boat take the White Motor Boats ferry from Weymouth Harbour
Mechanical Services reported an excellent show with seeing many existing customers and impressing many new potentials, their show neighbours Sunseeker had very successful time imparting info on their Osprey Quay development, discussing job opportunities that will be coming up and running their charity prize raffle – I won a Sunseeker shirt just need to win the boat now!
Another exhibitor attracting a lot of attention was Whitehorse Leadership with their examples of many knots and the opportunity to have a go by following their guide sheets.
Event supporter Lloyds TSB Commercial took the opportunity of meeting many existing customers in their marquee and passing on info to several potential new and found the show an excellent way of communicating their business.
MarineEx 2009 was part of Weymouth & Portland’s 9 day festival “Spirit of the Sea”
Plans are well under way for next year’s show on July 10th & 11th which is forecast to grow and capitalise on this year’s successes.